September Is Prostate Cancer Month – What You Need to Know about The Disease

Hearing the phrase, “it’s prostate cancer” is enough to send chills down any man’s spine. Fortunately, however, prostate cancer is not a diagnosis that guarantees a negative outcome, although it does usually cause shock and dismay.

Due to the latest advances in cancer diagnostics and treatment options, finding out that you have prostate cancer in the early stages can mean a complete recovery and sustained quality of life once the appropriate treatment plan is developed and implemented.

To commemorate September as Prostate Cancer Month, the expert urologists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles want to make sure that you’re aware of the basics of prostate cancer and its treatment options. If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer – or even if you suspect that you have it – we’ll help prepare you for the next steps.

Risk Factors Associated with Prostate Cancer

There are several risk factors associated with prostate cancer, including the following:

• Age – This is the biggest risk factor of all, and the chances of developing cancer start rising once a man reaches 50
• Ethnicity/Race – Though all men are at risk for prostate cancer, African-Americans have an incidence rate that is higher than both whites and Asian-Americans.
• Geography – North American, European, Australian, and Caribbean men are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease than men from other areas of the world (most likely due to diet)
• Family History – If your father, brother, grandfather, or uncle has ever been diagnosed with the disease, your chances of having it are greatly increased
• Changes in the Gland Itself – This particularly applies to gene mutations or the presence of PIN cells (prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia cells)
• Diet – Evidence shows that men are a higher risk if their diet consists of dairy and/or red meat.

Although it’s good to keep the above in mind, it’s also important to remember that you’re not guaranteed to have cancer if you suffer from one or more of the aforementioned risk factors. Despite this, you’re not necessarily in the clear if you have NONE of the known risk factors, either, which is why prostate cancer screenings are critical.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers and is the second deadliest cancer for American men. Since cancer of the prostate grows slowly, men who succumb to the disease usually do so because of a late or inaccurate diagnosis and/or improper treatment.

The prostate gland is crucial to your reproductive and urinary system, as it regulates the bladder and contributes to the health and mobility of sperm. As a result, most symptoms are connected to urinary or sexual habit changes.

However, the symptoms of this disease can be confusing, as they’re inconsistent from man to man; some men with the disease never have symptoms while others who don’t have the disease can have symptoms, though they could simply be due to normal body functions.

Here are 4 crucial symptoms:

Urinary Changes – These include difficulty holding urine in, difficulty starting to urinate, weak flow of urine, and pain or burning while urinating
Sexual Changes – These include erection issues, bloody semen, or pain during ejaculation
Unusual Swelling or Numbness – This refers more to numbness or swelling in the pelvis, hips, or legs, not to the penis or testicles, in particular
Unexpected Pain or Stiffness – This includes such issues in your lower back, hips, legs, and even bones

Don’t disregard these symptoms, especially if they persist. See a board-certified specialist as soon as possible, because early detection is the key between succumbing to the disease and surviving it.

If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, don’t be afraid to seek a second or even third opinion so that you’re sure that you weren’t misdiagnosed, as over- or undertreatment can be detrimental to your survival efforts. Furthermore, location, seriousness, and level of metastasis (spread) are also important when determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Options for Prostate Cancer Treatment

After your doctor has ascertained your overall health in addition to the size of the tumor, its aggression level, and its degree of spread, the best prostate cancer treatment plan can be determined and implemented.

If treatment for the whole gland is deemed necessary, several options are available:

Surgery – Surgical options include laparoscopy, robotic prostatectomy, and open surgery

Radiation therapy – These treatments include external beam radiation treatment (IMRT) and internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy)

Cryotherapy – Cryotherapy involves super-cooling the gland until the tumor is destroyed

Although the above whole gland prostate cancer treatments have track records of success, they carry risks of side effects and complications, such as erectile or urinary dysfunction. On the other hand, if localized prostate cancer treatment is deemed sufficient, there are several other options available:

Active surveillance – Active surveillance is not treatment, but simply active, regular monitoring of the tumor

HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) – HIFU is a safe, precise prostate cancer treatment that utilizes ultrasound technology.

MRI Fusion Therapies:

• TrueBeam IMRT
• MRI Fusion Brachytherapy
• MRI Fusion HIFU

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Whether or not you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, we urge you to live a healthy lifestyle. For example, exercise regularly – even walking for 20 minutes at least 3-4 times weekly – to keep fit. Walking helps lower stress and reduces the risk of a faster progression (if you’re dealing with the disease).

Also, consume a nutritious diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, fiber, low-fat foods, and nuts. This is believed to slow the growth of tumors. Learn more about healthy diet options for patients with prostate cancer at WebMD.com.

Learn More About Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is beatable, and the specialists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles offer the latest in prostate cancer treatment designed for you to beat it. Schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling our Beverly Hills office today.

Next, read 6 Famous Men Who Have Dealt with Prostate Cancer

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6 Famous Men Who Have Dealt with Prostate Cancer

It’s not uncommon upon hearing a diagnosis as serious as cancer for you to feel you’re alone. For men with prostate cancer, the diagnosis can feel even more isolating.

For many men, cancer of the prostate is not an issue they want to talk about, so they deal with it alone.

But, as the second most common cancer among American men, this tactic is not recommended. Fighting such a disease, even one with a high survival rate, should not be undertaken alone.

The fact is that nearly 3 million American men have the disease, so you’re not alone in numbers. If you have compassionate health care professionals, such as the team at the Prostate Cancer Specialists in Los Angeles and loving family and friends in your corner, you’re not alone in support. If you’re a member of a prostate cancer support group, you’re not alone in having enough strength to fight.

The Prostate Cancer Specialists of Los Angeles want you to know that prostate cancer is very treatable, especially when it’s diagnosed in its early stages. But that means you have to get regular cancer screenings and see your doctor yearly once you near 50.

Many who die from this cancer usually were diagnosed too late, diagnosed incorrectly, or treated ineffectively.

Known Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that should compel you to seek medical advice. They include the following:

• Being 50+ years old
• American men of Caucasian or African descent are at the highest risk
• A family history of it (father, brother, uncle, grandfather, etc.)
• Changes in the prostate gland itself

Keep in mind, though, that it’s not a given that you have this cancer even if you have one or more of the above risk factors. However, it’s also important to remember that you’re necessarily not free of this disease because you have none of the prostate cancer risk factors.

In fact, read on to learn about six well-known individuals who have been stricken by cancer of the prostate and you’ll see that the disease can affect anyone. You’ll also see that it’s possible to survive.

No, you’ll see it’s possible to thrive.

Harry Belafonte

Actor, singer/songwriter, and activist, Harry Belafonte beat the disease in 1996. He’s been very gracious in public about sharing his issues with such side effects as incontinence from cancer treatments.

Now at 89 years of age, Belafonte wasn’t always so open about his condition, especially given that opening up about a disease that affects such a central part of a man can be difficult to endure and talk about. However, he now believes that there is nothing to be ashamed about and that having a positive mindset when fighting the disease is vital to your chances of survival.

Ben Stiller

Actor Ben Stiller is a model of why having or lacking cancer symptoms guarantees nothing. Diagnosed in 2014, he had previously shown no symptoms; he also had no family history of the disease.

Stiller only found out as a routine part of a yearly physical. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test showed a high number, and a return test six months later confirmed an even higher number. Eventually, the news was confirmed, after which he had his prostate removed via surgery.

Stiller today is cancer-free, though he continues PSA testing every six months to check for a recurrence. And although the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force believes that PSA testing can often lead to overtreatment of low-risk prostate cancers, Stiller is on record stating that PSA testing saved his life.

Robert De Niro

Academy Award-winning actor Robert De Niro has made a name for himself in portraying tough guys in many of his well-known films. But beating cancer of the prostate in his 60s might be a better barometer for his toughness.

It was detected early enough that, although there are few details about his cancer treatment, he recovered well enough to become a father in 2011 via a surrogate to his wife and him.

Colin Powell

Four-star general (retired) and former Secretary of State, Colin Powell had surgery in 2003 to remove his prostate gland. He is now a vocal supporter of prostate cancer awareness.

Powell is another man whose life was extended – and with continued quality – because he got diagnosed early, a result of a regular prostate screening.

Sir Roger Moore

Actor and philanthropist, Roger Moore, most famous for his role as James Bond, was a noted and self-proclaimed hypochondriac, so being diagnosed in 1993 with prostate cancer, around the age of 65, was his ultimate nightmare. Moore recovered after he had his prostate gland removed via radical prostatectomy.

He later wrote about the health scare and his recovery. It profoundly affected him, as he admitted to being changed forever by the close call.

Moore passed way in May 2017.

Mandy Patinkin

Iconic actor and singer, Mandy Patinkin was diagnosed with cancer of the prostate in 2004 when he was 51-years-old. The diagnosis overwhelmed him, as he was at the same age that his father had died of pancreatic cancer.

Patinkin fully recovered after he underwent a radical prostatectomy. Learn more about this procedure at WebMD.com.

Contact Comprehensive Urology Today

As you can see, cancer doesn’t care about your age, genetics or career. That’s why it’s important to get screened regularly as part of your yearly physical. You can survive and live a fruitful life full of love and fulfillment. To learn more, contact the Prostate Cancer Specialists of Los Angeles online or at 310.341.2557.

Next, read Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer By Maintaining a Healthy Diet

 

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Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Cancer by Maintaining a Healthy Diet

A poor diet can easily be linked to health concerns such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, even colon cancer. And although the true relationship between nutrition and prostate cancer is not yet conclusive, more and more evidence suggests that good nutrition is a vital part of every prostate cancer prevention plan in Los Angeles.

The urological specialists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles encourage men to follow a mainly low-fat, plant-based diet. It helps maintain energy, strengthen the immune system, and optimize healing; it’s also believed to be instrumental in cancer prevention. If you already have prostate cancer, a good diet with low-fat, high-fiber foods, fewer simple sugars, and plenty of fluids can decrease the risk of it spreading.

How Nutrition and Prostatic Cancer are Linked

Fruits and Vegetables, Of Course!

Fruits and vegetables contribute to good overall health because they’re low in fat and full of vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber. But what is their role in the link between nutrition and cancer?

Foods with cancer-fighting phytochemicals such as:

• Lycopene (tomato, pink grapefruit, watermelon, mango, purple cabbage)
• Carotenoids (carrot, pumpkin, kale, spinach, sweet potato)
• Flavonoids (orange, blueberry, cherry, strawberry, apple, plum)
• Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale)
• Natural fructose (sugar from fruit)

Each of the above foods has been linked to lower risks of prostate tumors. In fact, several studies show that men who consume three or more servings per week of cruciferous vegetables reduce the risk of cancer by more than 40% compared to those who ate one serving per week.

Overall, it is highly recommended that men consume a minimum of 8 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. It’s a beneficial cancer prevention method for men who don’t have it, and it helps at restricting metastasis (spread) in men who already have it.

The Benefits of Fiber

High amounts of fiber are inherent in plant-based diets and have the following benefits:

• Eliminating toxic or cancer-causing compounds
• Reducing hormone levels associated with the progression of the tumor
• Slowing tumor growth

Furthermore, the National Cancer Institute reports that eating whole grains reduces cancer mortality and that a fiber-rich diet lowers the risk and spread of the cancer.

For prostate cancer prevention, we recommend 30 grams or more of fiber every day. Whole grain bread (not those with unbleached white flour) with 3 or more grams in each slice is an excellent source, as are oats, barley, quinoa, and beans.

Low Fat Eating

A low-fat diet obviously has many overall health benefits, but what about more cancer-specific benefits?

Men in developed countries have a higher incidence of prostate cancer, so researchers studied it to determine why. They observed that these men generally have a high-fat diet, resulting in increased testosterone levels, which are linked with cancer growth. Yet, in spite of this evidence, it’s still not conclusive or consistent enough to know for sure.

What is known, however, is this—avoid saturated fats and trans fats. The link between prostate cancer and saturated fat from red meat and/or dairy is conclusive; it could even increase the risk of metastatic cancer.

Trans fats, in addition to contributing to heart disease, cause hormone irregularities that disrupt the body’s healing mechanisms or damage bodily tissue, which could increase the chances of cancer.

Another bad fat is Omega-6 because it is thought to promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. As a result, avoid the following oils: corn, sunflower, flaxseed, safflower, cottonseed, and soybean. If oil is needed, go with olive oil, but always in moderation.

Good Fats

Some good fats have been linked to lower risks of prostate cancer prevention and progression. Omega-3 is a healthful fat found in walnuts, soybeans, canola oil, and fish (e.g., salmon, trout, herring, and mackerel).

We recommend that you consume at least 3-4 servings of foods with Omega-3 fats to either strengthen cancer prevention or reduce the risks of progression. (Make sure the fish is grilled or baked, not fried).

Maintain a Healthful Lifestyle

If you’re over 45, it is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle in Los Angeles. Cancer prevention is enhanced when you reduce sugar intake, monitor fat intake (and the type of fats consumed), and drink lots of fluids.

Here are several other benefits of good nutrition and prostatic cancer:

• Antioxidant-rich foods can reduce the risk of prostate cancer, so pomegranates, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries should be a part of your diet, as well as green tea
• Reduce alcohol intake to no more than one a day to keep your cancer risks reduced
• Exercise (even if only a 15-20-minute walk every other day) keeps the body healthy, promotes strong circulation, and sustains or improves the immune system
• Yoga and/or meditation can help improve one’s mental strength, focus, and mindset – all of which are valuable in battling cancer.

Read more about prostatic cancer at WebMD.com.

To Learn More, Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles

The links between nutrition and cancer are growing stronger. Preventing cancer starts with you, yet the disease can still be beaten even if you have it. To find out more, schedule a consultation online with our prostate specialists or contact our Beverly Hills office at 310.341.2557.

In a nutshell: Healthy diet and lower risk of prostate tumors

• Maintaining a healthy diet can likely help prevent prostate tumor or slow its growth
• What to eat? Fruits and vegetables
• Which ones? Tomatoes, cauliflowers, kale, melons, pomegranate, berries, kale, pumpkin, spinach, whole grain bread, green tea, sweet potato
• What’s bad for you? Saturated animal fat and trans fat
• What else to do? Exercise, relieve stress, reduce alcohol consumption

Next, read Avoid These Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

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Avoid These Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

Once a man hits middle age, the prospect of prostate cancer looms larger with each passing year. It’s one of the most common cancers among men in Los Angeles and worldwide, and, except for lung and bronchus cancer, it is men’s deadliest cancer.

Through years of research and clinical studies, a variety of risk factors has been found to be conclusively associated with prostate cancer. The experts at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles are at the research forefront of prostatic cancer prevention, testing, diagnostics, and treatments. We want you to understand that you can recover from this disease and live a fruitful, enjoyable life.

Prostate Gland Cancer

If detected early enough, this disease is treatable and beatable. Many men who do succumb to the cancer are often found to have had their cancer detected too late, diagnosed improperly, or treated ineffectively.

The prostate gland is roughly the size of a walnut, situated beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum. The gland regulates the bladder and builds healthy sperm, which is why many symptoms of prostate cancer involve unusual changes in sexual or urinary habits.

Known Risk Factors

The following reminders are worth noting first:

• Having one or more of the following risk factors does not mean prostate cancer is a given
• Having NO risk factors does not mean you don’t have or won’t get this cancer

However, as part of a long-term prostate cancer prevention plan, it’s still better to avoid the following known risk factors that can be sidestepped while trying to limit the impact that the other risk factors might have.

50 and Above

Age is the biggest risk factor of all. For men under 40, this cancer is rare and even for men in their 40s, the risk is low. After 50, though, the risks begin to increase and once men reach 65, according to the American Cancer Society, the chances significantly increase—about 60 percent of all cases are in men over 65.

Ethnic Group / Race

Although research has found that certain races and ethnic groups are more susceptible, scientists and the experts at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles are still working to determine why.

Black American men and Caribbean men with African ancestry are most at risk, as this cancer occurs most often in these two groups. Black men are also more than two times as likely to die from the disease as white men are. For American men with Asian or Hispanic ancestry, the chances of getting prostate cancer are less likely than they are for black or white American men.

Geographical Region

It’s been found that men from North America, Australia, northern and western Europe, and Caribbean island nations are more likely to get this disease, while it’s less common in men from Central America, South America, Asia, and Africa.

The reasons why men in certain regions are more vulnerable than men in other regions are not clear. Lifestyle could have an impact, although the extent is also unknown, especially in light of anomalous information such as this: American men of Asian descent are at less risk than their white counterparts, yet they are more at risk than their counterparts actually living in Asia.

In the Genes

Many studies have found that the majority of prostate cancer cases occur in men who have no history of it in their family. However, research also shows that a man’s risk more than doubles if a first-degree relative (i.e. father or brother) has had the disease.

Moreover, studies have found that a man’s risk increases more if a brother has had it than if the father has had it. An even higher risk has been attributed to men with several relatives who have or have had prostate cancer.

Changes in Genomes or in the Prostate Itself

Although gene mutations are thought to account for only a small number of cases nationwide, there are several types that could contribute to the cancer. For example, inherited genome changes are a common cause of Lynch syndrome, a condition found to increase one’s risk not only for a prostate tumor but also for several other types of cancer including colon.

As for changes in the gland itself, studies indicate that “atypical small acinar proliferations” (sometimes called ASAP) may increase a man’s risk of this disease. This finding on biopsy even in absence of cancer warrants close surveillance and repeat biopsy. Other lesions such as HGPIN (high grade intra epithelia neoplasia) may also increase the risk of prostate cancer in future.

Possible Factors That Continue to Be Researched

In addition to the established risk factors above, possible others have been identified, though irrefutable evidence has not yet been clarified.

For example, there could be a link between diet and prostate tumors because men who consume high-fat dairy and a lot of red meat, as well as fewer fruits and vegetables, seem to have a higher risk. Precise links have yet to be found, however.

Other risk factors being researched include a previous vasectomy, smoking, prostate inflammation, exposure to chemicals, STDs, obesity, high consumption of calcium, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Slow-Growing vs Aggressive Prostate Cancers

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, prostate cancer is actually more than one disease, which means there are multiple causes. Thus, the tumors that are aggressive and kill have different fundamental causes from the slow-growing ones, as the following examples illustrate:

• Obese men are not at a greater risk of developing the cancer, yet they are more likely to have an aggressive tumor
• Smokers are no more likely to get a slow-growing form of the cancer, yet are a slightly higher risk of getting a more aggressive type
• Men who lack fruits and vegetables in their diet are at an increased risk of the aggressive cancer but not of the slow-growing type

Do You Have Questions? Contact a Prostate Specialist in LA

Although some risk factors cannot be avoided, such as age or ethnicity, other risk factors can be. To learn more about known risk factors as well as ones still being researched, contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles online or at 310.341.2557.

In a nutshell: Risk factors for Prostate Cancer

• Age: most important of all! Especially after 65
• Geography/Race: Africans and African American males are more prone
• Family history: first degree relatives (father or brother) with the disease
• Genetics: some syndromes or genetic mutations (BRCA1 and 2, etc)
• “Pre-cancerous” lesions in prostate biopsy: such as ASAP, etc
• Aggressive forms of this cancer more common in: smokers, obese men, low fruit and vegetable diet

Next, read Active Surveillance: What Is It and Who Is a Candidate?

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Active Surveillance: What Is It and Who Is a Candidate?

Prostate cancer is among the slowest growing of all cancers; thus, a diagnosis does not automatically mean reduced life expectancy. Many treatments are available at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles, including whole gland procedures and focal treatments. The former includes aggressive therapies such as surgery or radiation while the latter group comprises less invasive procedures such as HIFU or MRI-fusion HIFU.

In many cases, aggressive treatment is unnecessary and even harmful. While they can certainly bring good results, they also carry risks such as increased chances of ED or urinary dysfunction. This might not work for men with the following:

• Early stage prostate cancer
• A small or localized tumor
• A non-aggressive tumor
• A low Gleason score

At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles, our expert prostate cancer specialists have the training and experience to design a customized treatment plan that suits your given situation. Given that recovery and continuation of a normal life are not unlikely, a viable treatment that does not detract from your quality of life is important. One such treatment is active surveillance.

What Factors Should Be Considered before Devising a Treatment Plan?

If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, the following factors should be taken into account in order to create the proper treatment plan:

• Tumor size
• Tumor stage
• Aggressiveness of tumor
• Degree of spread (metastasis)
• Gleason score (tumor grade)
• PSA level
• Patient age
• Patient’s will to survive
• Overall health of patient
• Patient concerns

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, over half of all men newly diagnosed with the disease have low-risk prostate cancer, meaning that the tumor is unlikely to spread quickly or even at all. Yet, for a majority of those men, the treatment they receive is not only immediate but also aggressive.

How Does Active Surveillance Work?

Active surveillance as a viable treatment option has gained traction in recent years once it became obvious that aggressive treatment in low-risk cases creates more harm than good.

Men with a small, early-stage tumor or a low Gleason score most likely should not undergo immediate radical treatment. On the other hand, taking a wait-and-see attitude toward a metastasized tumor might not be the most effective plan.

Active surveillance should not be considered a form of “no treatment.” Instead of direct manipulation of the tumor or affected gland, it is a proactive monitoring of the tumor through regular exams, including DREs (digital rectal exams) or PSA testing (prostate specific antigens).

It could also be considered deferred treatment because you do undergo treatment once it becomes really necessary, thus avoiding the treatment side effects as long as safely possible. There is much documentation of men with the low-risk type of the disease readily surviving 10-15 years after diagnosis with simple, yet regular surveillance. The rate of metastasis or death is remarkably low, indicating that in these cases, immediate or aggressive treatment would not have improved the outcome; in fact, it could be argued that such types of treatment would have reduced their quality of life due to the unwanted side effects which can be significant.

The key to success with active surveillance is regular monitoring and undergoing prostate cancer treatment once the tumor becomes more aggressive.

What Happens Once Cancer Is Diagnosed?

If a patient has been diagnosed with localized or early stage cancer, active surveillance is a viable method of treatment; instead of being immediately treated, the tumor is monitored closely, specifically its growth and aggressiveness.

More aggressive prostate cancer treatment is implemented only when the tumor enlarges, the aggression increases or the patient decides to undergo such treatment.

What Happens to the Cancer During Active Surveillance?

The tumor remains in your body. Research suggests that in the decade after the original diagnosis for men undergoing active surveillance more than half don’t warrant treatment during that period.

The truth is that it’s not for everyone. It takes commitment and a willingness to follow the recommended active surveillance plan. Though customized to meet your goals and treat your specific case, a plan is based on the following:

• PSA level every 3-6 months
• Repeat prostate biopsy within 18 months of diagnosis (then as necessary afterward)
• DRE (rectal exam) at 6 months or 1 year

Why Is It Not for Everyone?

Because active surveillance treatment is passive, there is an increased chance that the tumor grows or spreads. This is especially true for patients who don’t follow the customized surveillance plan as prescribed by their doctor.

That’s why active surveillance works better for diligent patients willing to be proactive in following a prescribed set of guidelines that ensures his continued quality of life.

When is Active Surveillance Recommended?

Since many patients are treated more aggressively for cancer than is necessary to survive, a common question about treatment is when are conditions right for active surveillance?

Below are general guidelines that are considered ideal:

• Tumor is considered to be low risk
• PSA level less than 10
• Gleason score 6 or less (some consider select 7 cases for this as well)
• Tumor is small and confined to prostate (ideally less than 3 biopsied cores involved)

Another situation where active surveillance is also a useful approach for older men with a limited life expectancy, especially if they are also dealing with other ailments and chronic health issues. In such cases, immediate therapy might cause more complications with no meaningful benefit.

Learn more about watchful waiting for low-risk localized cancer at WebMD.com.

Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles for More Information

Prostate cancer is beatable and we have a variety of prostate cancer treatment options to help you beat it. To schedule a consultation, contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles online or call our Beverly Hills office at 310.341.2557.

Next, read These 4 Crucial Symptoms May Mean You Have Prostate Cancer

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You’ve Been Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer – Now What?

First of all, a diagnosis is not the end of the world. Although the dreaded “C-word” diagnosis can be shocking, it’s important not to panic; your mindset will be the key to both a good prognosis and successful recovery. Millions of men have beaten prostate cancer and many millions more will, as well. Let’s make sure you know all your options and choose the best treatment plan.

Typically, prostate tumors grow slowly. Detection, especially early, all but ensures a full recovery and continuation of your normal life with a chance of cure. Even so, you might wonder what steps to take once you hear this unwelcome news, a refrain that the board-certified urologists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles hear often.

Here’s what we suggest.

A Second (or Third) Opinion

Your life may be on the line or, at the very least, your quality of life will be, based on the decisions you will make about your diagnosis. Don’t be shy – seek as many professional opinions as makes you comfortable. Make sure no misdiagnosis has been made that could lead to your being over-treated or under-treated. Educate yourself so you can choose wisely.

Find the Right Doctor

Find a doctor who is experienced, well-trained, board-certified, and has a successful track record of treating your condition. If you talk to a doctor who only does surgery or HIFU, it may be in your best interest to counsel with others who are skilled and trained in other methods of prostate cancer treatment as well, such as radiation therapy.

Furthermore, find a doctor with whom you’re comfortable. Often, patients overlook this but consider: you’re going through an emotional time and your doctor will be with you through the entire process. You should have someone you’re comfortable with – almost like a friend – who can guide you and give you objective expert advice and tailored insight every step of the way.

Gleason Score

Prostate cancer grade (Gleason score) is one of the most important prognostic factors. Your prostate biopsy sample will be inspected and graded on a scale of 2 to 10 by the pathologist:

• A score of 5 or less is a less aggressive tumor (mostly not even reported by pathologist)
• A 6 considered low risk (other factors also play into this)
• A score of 7 is considered intermediate
• Gleason scores 8 to 10 aggressive tumor with the highest levels of risk

Your Gleason Score will be a key factor in choosing the treatment.

Confirm the Location (Staging)

Where is the tumor? Is it localized? Or has it spread throughout the gland? Or, worse, has it metastasized outside the gland?

X-rays, CT scans, and bone scans can help determine the extent of cancer, another key component in deciding your treatment plan.

Learn more about cancer staging at WebMD.com.

Treatment Options

Once you have ascertained tumor size, the level of aggression, and the degree of metastasis, you and your doctor are better able to choose the best prostate cancer treatment. A low Gleason score or a small tumor, for example, might mean you wait, especially for older men, while a higher Gleason score or high aggression necessitates a proactive treatment.

Your overall health is also taken into account before deciding on one of the following options available in Los Angeles:

Whole Gland Treatment

This is common for prostate tumors that are either localized or have spread. Options for treating the whole gland include:

• Surgery
• Open surgery
• Laparoscopy
• Robotic prostatectomy
• Radiation treatment
• IMRT (external beam radiation treatment every day for eight and half weeks)
• Brachytherapy (internal radiation treatment in which “pods” are planted in the prostate to release radiation targeting the tumor at regular intervals)
• Cryotherapy – this freezes the prostate until the cancer cells are destroyed

Each whole gland cancer treatment is effective in varying degrees, yet each also has a risk of side effects and complications such as ED (erectile dysfunction) and urinary dysfunction (incontinence, urinary frequency, obstructions, etc.).

Focal Treatment

When cancer is localized or small enough, removal or treatment of the whole gland is not usually necessary. Accordingly, several other types of treatment are viable options.

• Active surveillance – In lieu of treatment, the least aggressive tumors are actively monitored via regular exams (e.g., digital rectal exams or PSA testing, also repeat biopsies).
• HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) – A revolutionary prostate cancer treatment that uses the safe ultrasound technology to target the cancerous portion of the gland and heat it up via until it is destroyed.
• HIFU is precise and it doesn’t affect nearby or adjacent tissues.
• MRI-Fusion TrueBeam IMRT – MRI mapping is combined with IMRT to deliver more precise radiation for better preservation of healthy tissue
• MRI-Fusion Brachytherapy – MRI mapping with brachytherapy is good for less aggressive tumors
• MRI-Fusion HIFU – MRI mapping combined with HIFU for precise treatment that preserves the remaining tissue

Don’t Be Shy – Get Support

Prostate cancer can impact you socially, professionally, financially, and sexually. You may not like asking for help, but don’t isolate yourself by trying to deal with the stress or condition alone. This can lead to loneliness and reduce your quality of life.

Family, friends or someone you know who also has prostate cancer are good sources of inspiration. A prostate cancer support group is also a good way to realize you’re not alone and to have people around who simply listen.

Continue Living a Healthy Lifestyle

Even if it’s a simple 20-minute walk 3-4 times a week, this can help you deal with your cancer by reducing your stress. Plus, research has found that exercise helps lower the risk of a faster progression rate.

Make sure to eat well, also. Low-fat foods, fruits, veggies, fiber, nuts are believed to have a positive impact on cancer growth (i.e., it might slow it down).

Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles for More Information

Prostate cancer is beatable, and we have a variety of prostate cancer treatment options at our disposal to help you beat it. To schedule a consultation, contact us online or call our Beverly Hills office at 310.341-2557.

Next, read When Should You Get Screened for Prostate Cancer?

The post You’ve Been Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer – Now What? appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

You’ve Been Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer – Now What?

First of all, a diagnosis is not the end of the world. Although the dreaded “C-word” diagnosis can be shocking, it’s important not to panic; your mindset will be the key to both a good prognosis and successful recovery. Millions of men have beaten prostate cancer and many millions more will, as well. Let’s make sure you know all your options and choose the best treatment plan.

Typically, prostate tumors grow slowly. Detection, especially early, all but ensures a full recovery and continuation of your normal life with a chance of cure. Even so, you might wonder what steps to take once you hear this unwelcome news, a refrain that the board-certified urologists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles hear often.

Here’s what we suggest.

A Second (or Third) Opinion

Your life may be on the line or, at the very least, your quality of life will be, based on the decisions you will make about your diagnosis. Don’t be shy – seek as many professional opinions as makes you comfortable. Make sure no misdiagnosis has been made that could lead to your being over-treated or under-treated. Educate yourself so you can choose wisely.

Find the Right Doctor

Find a doctor who is experienced, well-trained, board-certified, and has a successful track record of treating your condition. If you talk to a doctor who only does surgery or HIFU, it may be in your best interest to counsel with others who are skilled and trained in other methods of prostate cancer treatment as well, such as radiation therapy.

Furthermore, find a doctor with whom you’re comfortable. Often, patients overlook this but consider: you’re going through an emotional time and your doctor will be with you through the entire process. You should have someone you’re comfortable with – almost like a friend – who can guide you and give you objective expert advice and tailored insight every step of the way.

Gleason Score

Prostate cancer grade (Gleason score) is one of the most important prognostic factors. Your prostate biopsy sample will be inspected and graded on a scale of 2 to 10 by the pathologist:

• A score of 5 or less is a less aggressive tumor (mostly not even reported by pathologist)
• A 6 considered low risk (other factors also play into this)
• A score of 7 is considered intermediate
• Gleason scores 8 to 10 aggressive tumor with the highest levels of risk

Your Gleason Score will be a key factor in choosing the treatment.

Confirm the Location (Staging)

Where is the tumor? Is it localized? Or has it spread throughout the gland? Or, worse, has it metastasized outside the gland?

X-rays, CT scans, and bone scans can help determine the extent of cancer, another key component in deciding your treatment plan.

Learn more about cancer staging at WebMD.com.

Treatment Options

Once you have ascertained tumor size, the level of aggression, and the degree of metastasis, you and your doctor are better able to choose the best prostate cancer treatment. A low Gleason score or a small tumor, for example, might mean you wait, especially for older men, while a higher Gleason score or high aggression necessitates a proactive treatment.

Your overall health is also taken into account before deciding on one of the following options available in Los Angeles:

Whole Gland Treatment

This is common for prostate tumors that are either localized or have spread. Options for treating the whole gland include:

• Surgery
• Open surgery
• Laparoscopy
• Robotic prostatectomy
• Radiation treatment
• IMRT (external beam radiation treatment every day for eight and half weeks)
• Brachytherapy (internal radiation treatment in which “pods” are planted in the prostate to release radiation targeting the tumor at regular intervals)
• Cryotherapy – this freezes the prostate until the cancer cells are destroyed

Each whole gland cancer treatment is effective in varying degrees, yet each also has a risk of side effects and complications such as ED (erectile dysfunction) and urinary dysfunction (incontinence, urinary frequency, obstructions, etc.).

Focal Treatment

When cancer is localized or small enough, removal or treatment of the whole gland is not usually necessary. Accordingly, several other types of treatment are viable options.

• Active surveillance – In lieu of treatment, the least aggressive tumors are actively monitored via regular exams (e.g., digital rectal exams or PSA testing, also repeat biopsies).
• HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) – A revolutionary prostate cancer treatment that uses the safe ultrasound technology to target the cancerous portion of the gland and heat it up via until it is destroyed.
• HIFU is precise and it doesn’t affect nearby or adjacent tissues.
• MRI-Fusion TrueBeam IMRT – MRI mapping is combined with IMRT to deliver more precise radiation for better preservation of healthy tissue
• MRI-Fusion Brachytherapy – MRI mapping with brachytherapy is good for less aggressive tumors
• MRI-Fusion HIFU – MRI mapping combined with HIFU for precise treatment that preserves the remaining tissue

Don’t Be Shy – Get Support

Prostate cancer can impact you socially, professionally, financially, and sexually. You may not like asking for help, but don’t isolate yourself by trying to deal with the stress or condition alone. This can lead to loneliness and reduce your quality of life.

Family, friends or someone you know who also has prostate cancer are good sources of inspiration. A prostate cancer support group is also a good way to realize you’re not alone and to have people around who simply listen.

Continue Living a Healthy Lifestyle

Even if it’s a simple 20-minute walk 3-4 times a week, this can help you deal with your cancer by reducing your stress. Plus, research has found that exercise helps lower the risk of a faster progression rate.

Make sure to eat well, also. Low-fat foods, fruits, veggies, fiber, nuts are believed to have a positive impact on cancer growth (i.e., it might slow it down).

Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles for More Information

Prostate cancer is beatable, and we have a variety of prostate cancer treatment options at our disposal to help you beat it. To schedule a consultation, contact us online or call our Beverly Hills office at 310.341-2557.

Next, read When Should You Get Screened for Prostate Cancer?

The post You’ve Been Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer – Now What? appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

When Should You Get Screened for Prostate Cancer?

If you’re a man who’s reading this, you may already know that 1 in 7 American men will get prostate cancer at some point. You may also know that it’s the most common and the second deadliest cancer among American men. Maybe you even know that there are several ways to treat prostate cancer, including traditional surgery and the latest in MRI fusion biopsies. But do you know when you should start thinking about prostate screenings? There is no consistent symptom that arises to alert you. Instead, there are signs and certain clues that, should you notice them, may indicate that you need to get screened.

Although prostate cancer is the second deadliest cancer in American men, a diagnosis is not a death sentence. In fact, because it is among the slowest-growing cancers, early detection almost assures a complete recovery and resumption of your normal life, providing a realistic chance of cure.

However, the symptoms can be inconsistent – some men have sure-fire symptoms only to find out there is no cancer while others have an advanced stage of cancer despite no symptoms. At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles, we understand how this can be confusing and worrisome, if not downright scary.

The following are symptoms and other indications associated with prostate tumors. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with one of the urologists at our Los Angeles urological facility.

Know Your Family History

Knowing your family history helps your doctor determine your prostate cancer risk level. The general guidelines are as such:

• If your father, brother, or son has not been diagnosed with a prostate tumor, or if they were diagnosed after the age of 65, you are considered average risk
• If your father, brother, or son has been diagnosed with a prostate tumor before the age of 65, you are considered high risk
• If two or more from among those first-degree male relatives have been diagnosed with prostate cancers before 65, you are considered highest risk.

Your Age (Depending on Your Risk Level)

Keeping in mind the risk levels mentioned above, if you’re low or average risk based on family history, you should start considering a cancer screening once you’re 50 years old. If, based on your family history, you are considered high risk, you should first start getting screened at 45 years old. Finally, if you’re considered the highest of risks based on family history, you’ll want to start getting screened when you turn 40.

The above guidelines are based only on family history and age. Many doctors believe that any man in his 40s, regardless of risk level or risk factors he may bear, should get a baseline PSA screening.

Ethnicity

Ethnicity can be a major risk factor for prostate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Men of African ancestry face the biggest risk, as they get cancer at the highest rate. Men of Caucasian descent are next, followed by Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Asian/Pacific Islander men. If you are an African American man, we recommend that you be screened at the age of 40, regardless of your family history.

(Negative) Changes in Sexual Potency or Urinary Habits

Located beneath your bladder, the prostate is part of your reproductive system. It helps control your bladder, grow your sperm, and produce the seminal fluid essential for sperm movement during orgasm. Due to the prostate’s close relationship with both the urinary and reproductive systems, many prostate tumor symptoms are connected to changes in your sexual potency or urinary habits.

Because some of the signs of prostatic cancer are also symptomatic of other, unrelated conditions, it’s important to see a specialist who can properly diagnose your condition. Regardless, if you notice the following changes to your urinary or sexual habits, it’s important to contact a specialist as soon as possible.

• Frequent need to urinate, particularly at night
• Urge incontinence (can’t hold your urine)
• Difficulty starting once at the toilet
• Blood in the urine
• Weak or interrupted flow
• Painful or burning sensation while urinating

Changes or issues related to sexual potency that you should be aware of include the following:

• Difficulty or inability in getting an erection
• Problems maintaining an erection
• Painful ejaculation
• Blood in your semen

If these happen on a persistent basis, schedule a consultation soon.

Unexplained Pain, Swelling, or Stiffness in the Pelvic Region

Unexplained and persistent swelling in the pelvic region or legs could mean something serious. Another sign is numbness in the feet, legs, or hips, which could be an indicator of prostate cancer. Additionally, frequent or persistent lower back stiffness or pain extending into the hips or thighs (not due to injury or exercise) could also signify prostate cancer.

Early Detection is Crucial

Since several of the above symptoms could signify cancer of your prostate, it’s important that you don’t ignore them, especially persistent ones. Schedule a prostate screening with our Beverly Hills urologists and be sure what’s going on with your body. The sooner, the better, as early detection can make all the difference in your life!

Contact the Los Angeles Prostate Specialists to Learn More

Don’t ignore any prostate cancer symptoms. Get screened and stay updated on your health. Contact an expert Los Angeles urologist at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles to schedule a consultation today!

In a nutshell: When/who to screen for prostate cancer?

• Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and 2nd deadliest cancer in men in U.S.
• All men age 50 to 75 (or later, if they have longevity in the family)
• Main risk factors: Age, first-degree relatives with prostate tumor, African-American ethnicity
• Symptoms: Most commonly, none! Therefore, it is very important to screen for this cancer

Next, read Don’t Believe These Prostate Cancer Treatment Myths – Get the Help You Need Today

The post When Should You Get Screened for Prostate Cancer? appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

Don’t Believe These Prostate Cancer Treatment Myths – Get the Help You Need Today

If you or a loved one has or has had cancer, you know that there’s a lot of information out there about the disease as well as about treatments. Often, however, prostate cancer is the subject of misinformation and myths, which can only add to your frustration and anxiety about the disease and how to properly treat it.

At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles, we know the truth, and we’re here to separate it from several common myths about cancer treatment. We want you to be informed so that you can make knowledgeable decisions about your best prostate cancer treatment options.

7 Common Myths about Prostate Cancer Treatment

Myth 1 – No More Sex

Let’s dispel this myth right away. Surgery on the prostate does not mean an end to your sex life. This is because the cancer specialists at our center are expert experienced surgeons who have the skills to avoid damaging the nerves that trigger an erection. After surgery, most individuals will have no problems with getting and maintaining an erection after a certain period.

Since recovery from prostate cancer surgery in Los Angeles can take anywhere from 4 months to 2 years, the ability to have an erection could take a while. Be patient and follow your prescribed recovery plan to see the maximum result.

Myth 2 – Urine Leakage

A prostate cancer treatment will not cause permanent, regular urine leakage. If you undergo prostate gland surgery, it’s possible that you’ll experience short-term urinary leakage issues, but you should regain bladder control within a few months, although in some men, it could take as long as a year. More than 90% of men are without any urine leakage at 1 year after surgery.

Myth 3: Undergo Prostate Surgery Immediately

A common patient reaction to a prostate cancer diagnosis is to start surgery as soon as possible. In fact, it’s possible that you and your attending doctor may decide that surgery is unnecessary.

One such case is if the cancer is caught early, as prostate tumors typically grow slowly. If this is the case, it may be more prudent to wait and actively keep an eye on the disease. Called “active surveillance,” this type of treatment is common in older individuals. Under active surveillance, our doctors will perform frequent check-ups to see if your cancer is worsening, at which point treatment becomes viable.

If you have other illnesses or health problems in Beverly Hills, undergoing surgery on the prostate may affect the treatment of your other diseases. Therefore, your urologist may decide to hold off on surgery for the time being.

Myth 4 – Treatment Is Not Even Necessary

This seems to be at odds with the previous myth, but since prostate tumors commonly grow slowly, many people think that treatment is never necessary.

It’s important to remember that not all prostate tumors grow slowly. Certain types of cancer are very aggressive and need to be dealt with accordingly. Since prostate cancer is the second deadliest cancer for American men, a urological specialist will help guide you through a treatment decision.

Myth 5 – Surgery is the Only Effective Treatment

Another myth is that surgery is the only treatment for this disease. While surgery is effective, the following options are all viable alternatives to surgery. As with other diseases, however, the ideal treatment is dependent on each unique individual.

• HIFU
• Cryoablation
• Radiation Therapy
• Hormone Therapy

Learn more about potential treatment options at WebMD.com.

Myth 6 – All Treatments Have Comparable Cure Rates

Although much information on the Internet suggests that all cancer treatments are as effective as one another, such a general statement can be misleading due to the uniqueness of each case of prostate cancer, as well as the patients themselves.

Many studies on prostate tumor treatment have not been verified by an independent team, so results can be misconstrued or even biased. Furthermore, since your case is unique, you and your cancer may have different characteristics from those in a given study.

Another aspect to consider is the rate at which technology, medicine, and treatment options are evolving. Innovative techniques and treatments are hitting the market regularly, thereby increasing your options to have the best cancer treatment available.

Early Detection is the Key to Effective Treatment

Early detection is often the single determining factor to your survival. Although the traditional method of detection is a biopsy via ultrasound, new methods using advanced technology, such as an MRI fusion biopsy, are becoming popular due to their superior precision.

With better diagnostic capabilities, earlier detection leads to more positive outcomes, thereby enhancing your chances of survival and living a quality life. To learn more about your treatment options, contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles with your questions. You can schedule a consultation at our Beverly Hills urological center today.

Next, read What You Can Do to Support a Loved One with Prostate Cancer

The post Don’t Believe These Prostate Cancer Treatment Myths – Get the Help You Need Today appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

What You Can Do to Support a Loved One with Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer may be the second deadliest cancer for men, but a diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence. In fact, as a slow-growing type of cancer, if it is diagnosed early enough, prostate cancer treatment has excellent survival rates.

Regardless, it is the “C” word, one that will inevitably change your loved one’s life as well as yours. Battling the disease is difficult for a prostate cancer patient to do alone. Consistent, caring, and loving support from you and those around him will give him the strength and right frame of mind to carry on despite the challenges.

At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles, we know what both prostate cancer patients and their loved ones are dealing with. We are committed to providing not only the best treatment for your loved one, but also the best cancer support for you both.

Supporting a Loved One With Prostate Cancer

Understand What He’s Dealing With

The prostate is an important gland in a man’s reproductive system. It regulates control of the bladder and plays a crucial role in keeping his sperm healthy. Cancer of the prostate can be a psychological blow because of its nature and its relationship with sexual health.

Take time to understand the emotional impact of this disease on your partner. He’ll need your strength and understanding through this time.

Support Means Knowing You Can’t “Cure” Him

As a friend or loved one of a prostate cancer patient, you may find that much of the situation is out of your control. It’s easy to get frustrated because you cannot solve his problem, cure his cancer, relieve his pain (physically), or do much else. As a result, you can get down or depressed at how much you can’t do.

Let go of the need to solve his problem or “cure” him. It’s not your duty. The longer you put pressure on yourself to provide everything he needs, the harder it will be to truly support him and really be helpful. It will help him know that you’re committed to the process.

Active Cancer Awareness

Go with your loved one to doctor’s appointments. Ask his doctor questions. Don’t be shy about sharing your opinions on prostate cancer treatment options. The more active you are with your input, the more comfortable you both will be.

Furthermore, a surprising bond often develops when going through this together because he won’t feel that he’s alone. Believe it or not, your partner will relish having this support even if it isn’t always apparent.

Maintain an Even Emotional Keel

If your partner is suffering from chronic pain or even if he’s just not sharing much about his feelings, try not to take things personally. It’s often hard for a patient to talk about his condition because he feels ashamed or depressed, even inconsolable. This could cause him to lash out or react negatively to kindness or assistance, which can take a toll on you.

Make time for yourself. Sometimes, you’re going to need to recharge your batteries, so to speak, and a few hours with your friends at lunch or taking the time to relax and tend to your own emotional needs can make a huge difference for you both.

Join and Attend a Support Group

Support groups for both him and you – whether you go together or attend separate ones – can also have a huge impact. Talking to people about what you’re going through can help you release pent-up frustration. Listening to others who are dealing with similar, if not the exact same, issues can foster a sense of community and help you escape the feelings of being all alone.

A prostate cancer support group is available for the both of you, but there are also groups specifically designed for the prostate cancer patient himself.

Regular, Consistent Encouragement

It’s common for a cancer patient to withdraw from friends and family. In fact, he might withdraw from doing simple things with you, such as taking neighborhood walks or going for dinner or lunch.

Give him encouragement. Make it obvious that he can count on you for any type of support. Remind him that his children (or grandchildren) want to spend time with him and that it would be good for him, as well.

Above All, Communicate

The central theme of all recommended cancer support is communication. This includes the obvious, such as talking about the condition, asking questions about your loved one’s pain or needs, or discussing treatment options and lifestyle changes.

Communication also includes more subtle communication avenues, such as body language and intimate contact. Continue to kiss and hug him as you normally would. Talk about sex and intimacy; this might be the most vulnerable part of the process due to the nature and location of the tumor, so he might need you to initiate intimacy more than normal so that he knows you still desire him.

Feel free to discuss your intimacy needs and encourage him to do the same.

Contact the Prostate Specialists of Los Angeles

Prostate cancer can have a widespread impact, both on your loved one as well as on his family, friends, and relationships. Your support can make all the difference in how the disease will impact your partner, you, and those around you. To learn more about supporting your loved one throughout prostate gland cancer diagnosis and treatment, contact the Prostate Cancer Specialists of Los Angeles by calling (310) 341-2557.

Next, read our blog, When is the Right Time for a Prostate Cancer Biopsy?

The post What You Can Do to Support a Loved One with Prostate Cancer appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

When is the Right Time for a Prostate Cancer Biopsy?

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer found in men. This disease is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. However, this disease is different from many other types of cancers because it is slow-growing and can often go undetected, primarily due to a lack of debilitating symptoms.

Screening for cancerous cells in the prostate is important because it can lead to an early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. The most common type of screening test is the prostate-specific antigen test (PSA test). The PSA test is a blood test that is normally used to detect either cancer or prostate-related health issues.

What is a PSA Test?

Prostate-specific antigen (also known as “PSA”)  is a substance created by the prostate gland. PSA levels can be tested in the blood and can be used as a marker to identify different prostate diseases, including cancers.

Do PSA Screenings Effectively Detect Cancer in Men?

The PSA test is popular because it is a simple blood test, but it can’t always detect prostate cancer. As a matter of fact, the PSA test can lead to both false positives and false negatives for cancer of the prostate. It is typical for a man, once he reaches 40 years old, to undergo a PSA test to determine whether his PSA level is normal for his age range. However, there are four possible outcomes of this test, which include the following:

1. Your PSA is normal and you DO NOT have cancer (a true negative).
2. Your PSA is higher than normal and you DO have the disease (a true positive).
3. Your PSA is higher than normal but you DO NOT have cancer (a false positive).
4. Your PSA is normal but you DO have prostate cancer (a false negative).

As a matter of fact, elevated PSA levels can be due to a number of factors unrelated to cancer, including age-related enlargement, inflammation, or infection. In addition, certain everyday activities, such as riding a bike or having sex, can trigger a temporary increase in PSA levels. According to studies published by Harvard Medical School, up to 20% of men with normal PSA levels still have cancerous tissue, while up to 70% of men with elevated PSA levels do not.

Because a PSA test isn’t the most reliable method of identifying prostate cancer, it’s important to identify symptoms that indicate that more extensive diagnostic testing is needed. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment with the expert team of urology specialists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles.

• Urinary changes, either in frequency or difficulty
• Sexual changes, either in difficulty or an increase in pain
• Swelling or numbness to the prostate, penis or testicles
• Prolonged pain or stiffness in the lower half of the body

If a patient experiences any of these symptoms, it is necessary to undergo further diagnostic testing to determine if cancerous tissue is present.

Learn more about prostate cancer by visiting the American Cancer Society.

Effective Diagnostic Tests

Traditional Biopsy Method

The traditional biopsy method uses an ultrasound probe to perform a prostate cancer test. A biopsy needle passes through the lining of the back passage to take various samples of the prostate tissue from each of the six zones in your prostate.  While this method is good at identifying larger tumors, it often misses smaller cancerous areas.

MRI Fusion Biopsies

An MRI fusion biopsy is an innovative combination of MRI and ultrasound technology, which provides prostate imaging and makes for greater accuracy in identifying areas of cancer (in addition to greater precision in sample extraction).

MRI prostate biopsies are brief minimally invasive procedures. They provide patients with early detection, which was previously unavailable with traditional prostate biopsy methods.

The Advantage of MRI Fusion Biopsies

MRI fusion biopsies are able to access the entire gland, including harder-to-reach tissue previously undetected through traditional prostate cancer testing methods. This innovation leads to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes with the following benefits:

• Detects twice as many prostate gland cancers, in all stages, over a traditional biopsy
• Three dimensional-guided biopsy offers better targeting and precision for locating tumors and identifying areas for treatment
• Targets suspicious areas for biopsy, reducing the need for repeat or unnecessary biopsies
• Increases the detection rate of aggressive cancer cells
• Reduces the over-treatment of low-grade cancer
• Efficient and pain-free procedure

Prostate Cancer Tests in a Nutshell

• PSA tests are simple blood tests, but can’t identify all cases of cancer
• A traditional biopsy is good for identifying large tumors
• MRI fusion biopsies can not only identify cancerous tissue, but also provide a roadmap for radiation therapy after surgery

Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles

While some prostate cancer symptoms don’t mean you have the disease, don’t ignore any symptoms you do have, especially if they persist. To discuss your condition, contact one of our expert urologists online or by calling 310.341.2557 and schedule a consultation today.

Next, read our blog, What are the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

The post When is the Right Time for a Prostate Cancer Biopsy? appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

What are the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer to affect men in the United States, after skin cancer. While the disease is often slow to progress, it can eventually spread to other areas of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, and bones. Fortunately, due to its slow progression, prostate adenocarcinoma can be treated with very high chance of survival. As medicine and technology continually advance, more and more treatments are now available that not only eradicate cancer, but they can also preserve a much more normal quality of life for the patients than in previous years. However, in order to undergo early treatment, it is crucial to know the prostate cancer symptoms and signs.

The expert urologists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles have extensive experience diagnosing and treating varying stages of prostate carcinoma. If you or a loved one is concerned about carcinoma of the prostate, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with our skilled team for comprehensive care. Contact us online or call (310) 499-2756.

How to Recognize Prostate Tumor Symptoms

When a male reproductive tumor develops, there are typically no noticeable signs in the earliest stages. Only when the prostate gland becomes enlarged or cancer begins to spread to other parts of the body will the patient begin to experience prostate cancer symptoms, such as the following: 

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Frequent need to urinate, particularly at night
• A weak or intermittent stream of urine
• Unable to urinate while standing
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Painful urination or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation

It is important to note that these symptoms are the result of an enlarged prostate, whether due to cancer or another condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is crucial to meet with an experienced urologist to accurately diagnose and treat enlarged prostate symptoms.

In cases of advanced carcinoma of the prostate, the most common prostate cancer symptoms include:

• Loss of weight and appetite
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in the pelvis, lower back, upper thighs, or ribs, especially in the bones
• Stiffness in the pelvis or lower back
• Weakness or paralysis of the legs or lower body
• Constipation

If you or a loved one is living with the warning signs and symptoms of cancer, do not wait another day to schedule a consultation with our prostate specialists for prostate cancer treatment in Beverly Hills.

Treatment Options for Cancer of the Prostate

In order to treat cancer of the prostate, it is necessary to not only determine the grade and stage but to also evaluate each individual patient’s needs. With years of experience, each of our patients gets the personalized care and treatment he needs to achieve the best possible outcome.

The range of treatment options includes the following:

Active Surveillance (AS) – During the earliest stages of the disease, it may not be necessary to treat the condition, but instead take an active surveillance approach. This means carefully monitoring for signs of progression and waiting to treat the disease until it changes or begins to cause significant prostate cancer symptoms. Active surveillance is recommended in cases where it is best for the patient to not “over-treat” the disease too soon, avoiding unnecessary side effects.

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) – The latest treatment option utilizes high-intensity ultrasound waves to target very specific focal point, allowing the surgeon to destroy only cancerous tissue and avoid harming healthy tissue and nerves. Also known as HIFU, this treatment is effective for both malignant and benign tumors, as well as whole gland therapy. HIFU is ideal because it minimizes the type of post-treatment side effects many patients experience after cancer procedures.

Robotic Prostatectomy (Surgery) – Traditionally, removing the entire prostate involved making a large incision across the patient’s abdomen to access the gland, damaging tissue, muscle, and nerves in the process in most cases. Now with the da Vinci surgical system, a prostatectomy can be minimally invasive, requiring only a few small incisions. The robotic arms and endoscopic camera allow the surgeon to make very precise incisions to target only the cancerous prostate tissue, and even the lymph nodes, in some cases.

TrueBeam IMRT (Radiation Therapy) – This more advanced radiation method delivers higher doses of radiation with better precision than previous systems. The accuracy and safety of this treatment ensures better outcomes and less side effects.

Brachytherapy (Local radiation therapy seeds) – This form of radiation treatment involves placing radioactive “seeds” into the prostate gland while also utilizing MRI and ultrasound information to target specific areas of the prostate. This treatment involves only one session.

Cryotherapy (“freezing”) – Using extremely cold temperatures, the cancerous tissue in the prostate is frozen in order to destroy the diseased cells. The procedure is ideal for early stages as it can be used to target very specific areas of the gland.

Hormonal Therapy – The male sex hormones androgens help control the growth and function of certain male characteristics, such as the development of the prostate gland. By suppressing this hormone in patients with cancer, it is possible to slow or block the cancer cells from progressing in the prostate.

Chemotherapy – Anti-cancer drugs can be used to slow or stop the development of cancer and may be combined with hormone therapy. This treatment is most effective in the early stages and can cause a wide range of side-effects, such as nausea, mouth sores, and fatigue.

Contact the Prostate Cancer Institute of LA

Regardless of whether you have already been diagnosed with the disease, or if you’re simply trying to prevent it, the doctors and urologists at the Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles can help your fight against cancer. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

In a Nutshell: Prostate Gland Cancer Symptoms

• Most Commonly: No prostate cancer symptoms! (This is the reason for annual screening by your physician)
• Risk Factors: African-American ethnicity and family history of prostate cancer, age
• Other Symptoms: Urinary changes, sexual changes, unexplained pain in pelvis, blood in ejaculate or urine, and painful ejaculation or urination

Next, read The Most Common Prostate Biopsy Techniques

The post What are the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer? appeared first on Prostate Cancer Dr. in Los Angeles CA.

The Most Common Prostate Biopsy Techniques

A prostate biopsy is a medical procedure where samples are taken from the prostate gland of the patient. During a prostate biopsy in Los Angeles, a needle is utilized to gather multiple tissue samples from the prostate gland.

A prostate biopsy is advised when the results of the initial screening tests, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test or digital rectal exam (DRE) show the possibility that a patient may have prostate cancer. Tissue samples taken during the prostate biopsy are then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine if there are any cell abnormalities that could be an indication of prostate cancer. If cancer is present, it should be evaluated right away in order to determine its grade, stage and the best treatment options to prevent it from getting worse and harming the patient.

Prostate Biopsy Techniques

Some of the most common prostate biopsy techniques include:

Fusion Biopsy 

Recently, researchers have developed computer software capable of ‘fusing’ the detailed MRI scan images with real-time ultrasound images of the prostate to help with sampling the gland and improving detection and biopsy accuracy.

In this biopsy technique, the patient would undergo an MRI scan first, and the radiologist would assess the entire prostate and mark the suspicious areas. Then, in an outpatient setting, the specialist would insert an ultrasound probe into the patient’s rectum. This visualizes the prostate in real time and the fusion software superimposes the images with MRI map, while constantly shifting the overlaid MRI image to match the ultrasound. This gives a 3-D view of the gland and marks out area(s) of interest at the same time.

Likewise, a fused image can also be used to guide the biopsy needles accurately to the lesion that should be sampled instead of poking around “blindly” without the assurance if there would be something to be found.

As you can see, an MRI fusion biopsy gives a detailed look of the prostate than the traditional ultrasound, which could only suggest that there may be a tumor in any region.

Guided Biopsy of the Prostate, MRI Prostate Biopsy Technique, and Prostate Imaging

Prostate biopsies are usually performed under ultrasound guidance. During the procedure, a biopsy needle is inserted into the prostate and through the wall of the rectum, in order to take some small tissue and send it for pathologic analysis.

It’s also possible to access the prostate through the perineum – the area of the skin between the rectum and the base of the scrotum. This technique is known as the “transperineal approach” and is utilized for several reasons, such as:

• In cases where cancer is suspected at the front of the prostate gland (better reach).
• If the patient has recently undergone rectal surgery and transrectal ultrasound is not recommended or simply cannot be done.

Prostate biopsies could also be performed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which offers more detailed images of the prostate than what is possible for normal ultrasound. Before the procedure, the MRIs are evaluated through the assistance of a computer-aided detection software in order to determine the exact areas that would need more evaluation.

Also, MRI-guided biopsies can be done with the use of a rectal approach or perineal approach. Both of these methods employ the use of software in order to properly guide where the needle should be positioned.

Prostate Mapping

Prostate mapping is a technique where a multi-sequence MRI scan, as well as the template prostate mapping biopsies, is being utilized. Both of these are capable of producing state-of-the-art information that shows the state of the possibly cancerous tissue within the affected area with a high degree of accuracy.

What Happens After the Biopsy Procedure?

After the biopsy, one of the attending physicians will call the patient to see if he or she is doing well. The results are available in a matter of two to four days, and in some cases, you can check the results online, allowing you to view the results immediately and obtain a personal copy.

These reports would show where the cancer is located and how potentially aggressive it is, which would be denoted through the help of a Gleason scoring system (i.e “grade”).

Recovery after the Biopsy

After the procedure, patients might experience some post-procedure events, which differ from one person to another. Those who had transrectal biopsy may experience some bleeding from the rectum that could last for a couple of days after the biopsy. For those who have undergone general anesthesia, there may be a need to spend some time in the recovery room after the biopsy procedure and ask someone to drive you home. Learn more about prostate biopsies at WebMD.com.

Likewise, just like any other medical procedures, it’s important to stay away from strenuous activities for at least four hours. You might experience some pain and discomfort around the pelvic area for a couple of days, together with mild cramping. There could also be blood in the urine and stool for about a week, and some men may notice that there’s a slight discoloration in their semen. This could last for a month after the biopsy.

That said, here’s what patients can do after the biopsy and during the recovery period:

• Stay away from any physical activities and strenuous exercises, such as weightlifting a few hours after the procedure.
• For the next couple of days, try to limit yourself from performing regular exercise. Always ask your doctor for more instructions.
• Stay away from activities that could stress the pelvic area. This includes riding a bicycle, martial arts, and horseback riding for a week.
• Supplements should be taken to speed up the healing process.
• Taking modified citrus pectin is also advisable. Numerous studies show that it could assist in recovery because it strengthens the immune system.
• Never hold your urine– this could irritate the bladder and lead to UTI.
• Prevent constipation by consuming foods high in fiber, and stay well hydrated.
• Avoid any sexual activities for a couple of weeks.
• Keep your private area clean.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy food, because these could irritate the bladder.
• Don’t worry about erectile dysfunction, a prostate biopsy doesn’t cause this.

If you have more questions about this procedure, contact The Prostate Cancer Institute of Los Angeles by calling (310) 499-2756 for more information and to schedule an appointment today.

In a Nutshell: Prostate Biopsy

• Location: Through the rectum (most common) or perineal (rarely)
• Guidance: Ultrasound, MRI, or MR/US fusion
• What to Expect: May have some blood in stool (few days) urine or semen
• No harm to erectile function
• Can be done under sedation with no discomfort

Next, read What Causes Prostate Cancer? Learn the Reasons and Stay Aware

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